The apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), describing his prolonged detention as both unjust and unacceptable.
This demand formed part of a communiqué issued at the close of a two-day Ohanaeze Ndigbo Leadership Retreat held at the Landmark – Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu, from June 4 to 5, 2025.
The communiqué was jointly signed by the President General, Senator Azuta Mbata; Deputy President and Planning Committee Chair, Prince Okey Nwadinobi; Secretary General, Emeka Sibeudu; and National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu.
The retreat, themed “Rebuilding Our Foundation,” drew together prominent Igbo leaders and stakeholders across sectors, including academia, religious and traditional institutions, private sector players, town unions, youth and women groups, and diaspora representatives. It was chaired by the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, and formally opened by Enugu State Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai.
In a strong resolution, the group condemned Kanu’s continued detention despite a previous court acquittal, urging the federal government to seek “an alternative solution” and facilitate his immediate release.
Beyond the Kanu issue, the retreat focused on themes of Igbo unity, economic empowerment through regional investment, and cultural revival. It reaffirmed core values such as Igwebuike (strength in unity), Onye aghala nwanne ya(leave no one behind), and Ako bu ije (wisdom is the path).
Participants also endorsed the establishment of Professorial Endowment Chairs in seven universities within the Ohanaeze states, aimed at advancing academic research in Igbo language, culture, and history.
The organization concluded by stating its intent to present a draft constitution and programme blueprint to Imeobi, its highest decision-making body, in the near future.
